News

Empowering Short Films: HAVC & MIDPOINT Development Award

MIDPOINT Institute is thrilled to announce the return of the HAVC & MIDPOINT Development Award, a prestigious recognition for the best short film project within the MIDPOINT Shorts 2025–2026 program.

For the second consecutive year, this award highlights the ongoing commitment of MIDPOINT Institute and the Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC) to support emerging filmmaking talents. The award includes a cash prize of 3,000 EUR, co-funded by HAVC, providing essential financial support to the standout project.

Don’t miss the MIDPOINT Shorts Showcase:

• When: Monday, January 19, 2026, at 16:30 CET

• Where: WEMW Co-production Forum

• Award Announcement: The winner will be revealed during the WEMW Award Ceremony on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

MIDPOINT Cold Open 2026: Navigating the Series Landscape

We are equally excited to bring the MIDPOINT Cold Open workshop to Trieste. Designed for writers and producers transitioning from film to series, this program serves as a vital bridge for creators looking to navigate the global market.

This year's selected participants will dive into the complexities of episodic storytelling, gaining the tools and networks necessary to succeed in today's competitive landscape.

Inspirational Talk: Wendy Calhoun on "The Art of Life, the Art of Series"

In collaboration with WEMW and Film Independent, we invite all forum guests to a special inspirational session featuring acclaimed American showrunner and producer Wendy Calhoun (Edgewood Place Entertainment).

In her talk, titled "The Art of Life, the Art of Series," Wendy will share her perspective on the future of series storytelling in a rapidly changing, "post-Peak TV" landscape. Drawing on her extensive experience creating global hits, she will explore:

• How writers can remain resilient and protect their authorial vision.

• The creation of work with lasting value in the age of AI.

• How lived experience and intuition shape bold, diverse narratives that resonate across borders.

Join the Talk:

• When: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 12:30 – 13:00

• Where: Sala Zodiaco